What is TSA Precheck and how do I request it?

What is TSA Precheck?

TSA Precheck is one of the best security screening programs that allows you to go ahead at the airport if you travel to USA destinations. It is compulsory for U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents who are members to go through the TSA precheck service during their trips. This program utilizes intelligence and risk assessments to identify passengers who can pose a security threat and allows them to go through security checkpoints faster. It is the best security screening service that will enable you to remove your shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops, or liquid items. 

What documents are required for TSA Precheck?

When you go for the TSA Precheck requirement, you must bring one document from List A or two from List B. You must check out the essential documents below to apply for TSA Precheck.

List A:

  1. A US passport must be valid for six months.
  2. Free and secured trade card. 
  3. Permanent Resident Card. 
  4. Enhanced Identification Card. 
  5. Foreign passport and an immigrant visa with I-551 annotation, etc. 

List B:

  1. A driving license issued by a state or outlying possession of the U.S.
  2. Government-issued Photo ID card. U.S.S. Military or retired Military ID card, etc.   

How much does it cost to get a TSA Precheck? 

TSA Precheck costs around $78 at Idemia enrollment centers and $85 at Telos enrollment centers. You will enjoy membership to TSA Precheck for five years, and if you go for precheck renewal, you will be asked to pay around $70. 

How can I enroll in TSA Precheck online? 

To enroll in TSA Precheck online, you must visit the Official Government website and complete the form quickly. But if you are new to signing up for TSA Precheck, follow the easy steps below.

  1. First, visit tsa.gov/precheck and select the enrollment provider that meets your requirements.
  2. Get the pre-approval, enroll online, and make an appointment by answering the questions.
  3. You must bring a valid, unexpired U.S. passport and a government-issued I.D.D photo.
  4. As a senior citizen, you must carry a document to prove your age and get the benefits.
  5. After completing the enrollment in TSA Precheck, get the message on your registered phone.

How long does it take to get approved for TSA Precheck? 

When you complete the application form for TSA Precheck, you will receive a message of approval within three to five working days. However, some applications can take up to 60 days, depending on the applicants or if an issue is captured during fingerprinting or missing data. 

How do you get TSA Precheck for free? 

To be eligible for free TSA Precheck, you can apply using a debit or credit card instead of cash. However, you can also apply using other resources.

Utilize one Venture Rewards: 

Using Venture Rewards, you can receive up to a $100 credit for TSA Precheck membership. It is the most effective card for quickly getting TSA Precheck. 

Randomly issued:

Being a member, you can find a TSA Precheck randomly and get security screening benefits more comfortably. 

Enjoy the Military benefits:

If you are an active U.S. military member, you will receive TSA Precheck benefits by entering your Department of Defence identification number, which works as a KTN number. 

Use Redeem Rewards:

Some airlines and hotels offer the best loyalty programs, which you can use to get more benefits. For example, if you earn reward points, you can get the TSA Precheck without a fee. 

Is TSA Precheck worth it? 

Yes, TSA Precheck is one of the valuable services that save your time and avoid unnecessary frustration during security check-in time securely. So, if you don't wish to meet with any trouble during your trip at the airport, TSA Precheck will help you complete your security check-in hassle-free. 

What do I need to bring to the TSA Precheck interview? 

When you go for the TSA Precheck Interview, you must carry your essential documents, which you can verify with your given KTN number or use your fingerprint. The task takes more than 10 minutes to complete. Ensure you bring a valid passport, driving license, and other essential documents that you can easily show to the travel agent during security check-in. You might also be asked to pay a nonrefundable fee at your appointment time.